With the best intentions can sometimes come issues. Any event that mixes work colleagues together outside of hours has the potential to get out of hand. Throw alcohol into the mix, and it can be a recipe for disaster. Whilst Christmas should be a merry time for all, some may over-indulge and forget their professional duties and responsibilities. As it has been sometime since a work-related celebration, now would be a good time to send out a general reminder about behaviour at such events. Better yet, if your client has a related policy, even a simple disciplinary one, this can be sent out as a reminder to not go over the top. Employees should be aware that the normal disciplinary rules will apply, as work-organised events (and any after-parties or get togethers that result from them) are very likely to be ‘within the course of employment’ and therefore subject to the usual rules on behaviour.
With the party on a worknight, she may also encounter issues with employee absence the day after. Those who turn up to work late or under the influence can be subject to the organisation’s disciplinary procedures, as can employees who don’t turn up to work at all. However, employers may be limited in their actions if an employee calls in sick the day after a heavy night of partying since, legally, they are able to self-certify any absence for up to 7 days. In the event that the person is unreasonably taking advantage of the business, action can be taken for multiple periods of unlinked absences, but employers should be careful that there are definitely no health conditions or underlying reasons which have caused the time off.
Ultimately, this is an opportunity to have fun and celebrate the season with colleagues. It has been a tough (almost) two years and no doubt they have earned it, so in giving these messages your client can use this opportunity to celebrate the hard work of her staff.
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